Leighton Bell, aged 8, of John F Kennedy Primary School has scooped the top prize in Washington and Sunderland West MP, Sharon Hodgson's annual Christmas Card Competition.

Sharon and winners of her Christmas Card Competition. Copyright Simon Farrell 2017.

The John F Kennedy pupil’s design emerged as the overall winner from dozens of competition entries from local primary school children during an awards ceremony today at the Washington Arts Centre.

The panel of judges, which as well as Sharon, comprised: Anthony Sutherland, Managing Director of Washington Components Ltd; Will Pitcairn, Deputy Manager at Sainsbury’s Washington; Lauren Ruff, PR Ambassador at Sainsbury’s Washington, and; Matthew Blyth, Audience Development Officer at Washington Arts Centre.

Leighton’s design will now be printed on the front of Sharon’s Christmas card and will be sent to top politicians and public figures across the country, as well as local groups, organisations and community leaders.

Leighton won the 4/5/6 age-category group. The two other age-category winners were Anya Charlton of Bexhill Academy in the Nursery and Reception year group category, and Matilda Smith of Grindon Hall Christian School in the 1/2/3 Year Group Category, who will both have their designs featured on the inside of the Christmas Card.

Sharon’s Most Promising Artist Award, chosen and donated by Susan M Coles, National Society of Education in Art & Design (NSEAD) Honorary Fellow, was presented to Rio Miyauchi from Wessington Primary School.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Sharon said:

“It is always an absolute honour and delight to run this competition each year and kick off the festive period by celebrating the wonderful creativity of local school children from across the constituency.

“The talent and imagination of the children on display never fails to astound me, and Leighton’s design showed a unique and creative flair. It will be such a wonderful design to send out across the political world and in our local community.

“As always, thanks must go to the teachers, school staff and the parents and guardians for their support, and of course, most importantly, the children who make the day such a memorable one. A special mention must go to the Arts Centre and local businesses who help make the day such a success.” 

Sharon and overall winner of her Christmas Card Competition. Copyright Simon Farrell 2017.